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Amid the emergence of Bluetooth as a communication tool, many companies developed entertainment and business innovations that utilize the convenience and ease of wireless technology. Many of these wireless accessories have been marketed to entertain the needs of travelers; however, companies may not have accounted for the drawbacks of Bluetooth in air travel. Like airplanes, Bluetooth uses radio frequencies to transmit data; thus, some airlines have imposed restrictions on Bluetooth devices.

Banned Bluetooth

Some airlines have banned Bluetooth devices from flights, but some restrict Bluetooth devices to those not attached to cell phones. The concern is that Bluetooth devices may cause interference on radio frequencies used for communication between airplanes and control towers. Essentially, they are banned for the same reasons that cell-phone use on planes is banned. If you have any essential Bluetooth devices, especially concerning medical or assistive technologies, it is important you research your flight’s Bluetooth allowance.

When to Use Bluetooth

If Bluetooth devices are permitted, there are specific rules that dictate when they can be used. You always are notified to power off any electronic devices before takeoff until the plane reaches a safe cruising altitude. This rule has been put into place to avoid unknown signals transmitted from devices that may disturb communication by the airplane. Likewise, Bluetooth devices must be turned off until cruising altitude, which will be indicated, for safe use. During takeoff and landing, these devices must be deactivated.

Bluetooth Blueprints

Once you are free to use your Bluetooth devices, there are specific rules on use. If you are using Bluetooth technology with a cellular or VoIP-capable device, you must disable communication capabilities in that device. This is easily disabled on cell phones by turning on “Airplane Mode.” Normally, a cell phone’s airplane mode deactivates cellular activity, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so Bluetooth needs to be manually reactivated before using a Bluetooth device. In addition, some tablets may have cellular capabilities; in that case, the tablet has a way to deactivate these features while retaining capability.

Restriction Considerations

Some wireless technologies are not immediately recognizable as Bluetooth. If you are arranging a flight and plan on bringing wireless devices on board, research your airline’s Bluetooth policy first. The best way to do so is by calling your airline’s customer service directly, as many airlines do not cite specific Bluetooth restrictions online. Keep in mind that most major U.S. carriers restrict the use of Bluetooth devices. If your flight does restrict Bluetooth, remember it is doing so only to provide a safe flight experience.

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About the Author

Based in Los Angeles, Shai Ehrmann has written and edited for several travel publications since 2005, including featured articles in Pasadena Star-News and US Travel. His areas of expertise including hiking and outdoors, travel, music, science and art.